Be Still And Know

Helen Francis

At the beginning of August I unexpectedly had time at home alone, four days in fact. For me this was a first. I’d had one previous experience of two nights away on my own, but I was in a retreat situation so not really alone.

It was a bit surprising to realise that in my long life this situation had never come round before and I wasn't sure how I would feel. But it seemed like an opportunity to rest and go at my own pace, and spend time with God, and that's exactly what I did.

One of the promptings I got during those days was to go back over my walk with God and remember all the times I'd felt his presence or him communicating with me. I was astonished and so encouraged at how many I could recall - I have written them down so I have a list to refer back to for future encouragement.

Often these are small, intimate moments where the Lord’s input is unmistakeable.

One that always makes me smile is on that first time alone at that silent retreat. Choosing the retreat was my present to myself for my 60th birthday. Not knowing what to expect, I drove to Holy Island and met my host. Having been shown my room and the kitchen I was left to my own devices. There was a plate of gluten free goodies waiting for me, which made me feel God was already showering love on me and had prepared for me coming.

I decided to make myself a coffee to go with them. The mugs were in a low cupboard beneath the work surface so, rather than bend, I just searched with my hand to feel one which would be nice (coffee needs a thick-rimmed cup in my opinion). My hand lighted on one which felt perfect. I pulled it out, it was a plain light grey mug, just the right size and thickness. But, as I turned it round, I laughed with delight to see a beautiful gold ‘60’ inscribed on the other side! Coincidence to some, but not to me, another precious moment being reminded that my Lord sees me and knows me. It was a wonderful two days where God spoke to me in so many ways.

We know as Christians we are never really alone, as we have Jesus with us and in us, but its good to go somewhere quiet to connect fully with him sometimes.

It was Jesus's habit to find time to be alone with the Father: ‘Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed’ (Luke 5:16). All relationships are strengthened by time spent alone together.

I hope you can have opportunities to "…be still and know that I am God…" (Psalm 46:10) in the week ahead, and maybe even make your own list of all the times you've felt His presence.